Hungary’s Péter Magyar was sworn in as prime minister on Saturday, marking the end of Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule. Magyar’s center-right Tisza party secured a two-thirds parliamentary majority in last month’s election, the largest in Hungary’s post-Communist history. Orbán’s Fidesz-KDNP coalition saw its seats drop from 135 to 52, while the far-right Mi Hazank party holds six seats.
Magyar, a 45-year-old lawyer, founded Tisza in 2024 after resigning from Fidesz, citing corruption concerns. In his inaugural speech, he pledged to serve Hungary rather than rule it, emphasizing democratic reforms and anti-corruption measures. The new government is expected to shift Hungary’s stance in the EU, as Magyar is more pro-EU and anti-Russia than his predecessor.
Economic challenges loom, with the outgoing government’s spending spree pushing the budget deficit near its annual target. Magyar’s administration has vowed to address corruption and restore checks and balances, though the severity of economic issues remains unclear. Orbán and key Fidesz figures did not attend the swearing-in, signaling a potential fracture within the party.
A ‘regime-change’ celebration was held outside Parliament, with thousands gathering to mark the transition. Magyar has called for unity, stating that his leadership is a result of millions of Hungarians demanding change. The new government faces immediate tasks, including forming a cabinet and addressing economic instability.